Chapter 143
Chapter Title: Unraveling Tensions
The low hum of Myra’s sleepy voice was a soothing melody to Tony’s ears, like a soft hand caressing his heart. The bustling view of New York’s streets, once vibrant and alive, faded into the background as his mind shifted entirely to her. He recalled the moment he saw her message after stepping off the plane, and an unexpected warmth settled in his chest.
Without a second thought, he discarded the half-smoked cigarette from his lips, pressing it out in the ashtray. His voice, warm and low, pierced the quiet. “Did you miss me?”
A soft shiver ran through Myra’s body, and she buried herself deeper under her blanket, her voice muffled. “Yes…”
Tony’s low chuckle vibrated through the phone, a sound that made her smile even though she couldn’t see him. She felt strangely weak whenever he was on her mind, but when they were together, awkwardness often crept in. She bit her lip, then asked, “Did you go back to handle the Hartwell Group?” Estelle had once mentioned that Tony was planning to move the company back to Bradfort City and merge it with the Hart Group.
Tony wasn’t at all surprised that Myra knew. Instead, he pulled out another cigarette, but this time, he discarded it just as quickly, tossing it into the car’s trash bin. He reclined in the seat, loosening his tie with a casual air, his indifference apparent. “Don’t worry. There will be some business events, but those women aren’t even close to my standards.”
Myra’s heart skipped a beat. A surge of warmth flooded her chest as she found herself smiling. “If those women don’t meet your standards, then who does?”
The question slipped from her lips before she could stop it, and she immediately regretted it. Still, a small part of her eagerly awaited his response. As expected, Tony chuckled again, and the deep, sexy sound made her cheeks flush. Her sleepiness melted away as she sat up straighter, trying to sound unaffected. “What are you laughing at?”
“You want me to confess, huh?” Tony’s voice was teasing, his lips curling into a faint smile. The driver, who had been quietly listening, glanced at Tony through the rear-view mirror in confusion. But when Tony’s eyes narrowed slightly, the driver quickly returned his focus to the road, trying to suppress his curiosity.
Myra’s face reddened as she heard Tony’s playful remark. Luckily, he couldn’t see her. She gripped the phone tighter, her voice firm. “It’s late. I’m tired. I’m going to bed.”
Tony wasn’t ready to end the conversation. “So, you don’t want to know who meets my standards?” He sounded almost disappointed.
Her frustration flared. “I don’t want to know!”
Tony sighed dramatically, his voice full of lazy amusement. “What a shame. I was going to tell you. But if you’re tired, go ahead and sleep.” He paused for a moment, his tone shifting to something more serious. “Tomorrow, Elliot will bring Meow to your place. The dog will keep you company while I’m not around.”
Myra’s mind wandered back to the conversation before Tony had left. His words echoed in her thoughts: When I’m away, don’t talk to any other men, and don’t get close to them.
Her heart fluttered with a mixture of sweetness and embarrassment. What a domineering man he was! Despite herself, she smiled and hissed playfully. “Fine.” She hadn’t seen the dog in so long; she missed Meow’s goofy antics.